A comprehensive review on the watermelon phytochemical profile and their bioactive and therapeutic effects

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is commonly consumed by humans and widely available around the world. It has impressive nutritional properties, a rich phytochemical profile, and various claimed medicinal and health benefits. The major carotenoids in watermelon include lycopene, β-carotene, phytofluene, phytoene, lutein, and neurosporene. Lycopene (approximately 6,888 μg/152 g) is the major bioactive component in the fruit and it reportedly promotes several therapeutic effects, such as anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activities etc. in humans and animals. Watermelon is also a good source of the amino acid citrulline, which is involved in production of arginine. Pre- and postharvest factors, including fruit sampling area, application of fertilizer, climatic factors, and genetic variability, are known to affect its bioactive compounds and nutrient concentrations. This review summarizes our current understanding of the watermelon phytochemical profile and the factors affecting its bioactivities and therapeutic effects.